Allison Cowell

What is your role on national board?
National Finance Director

What are your objectives for your role in 2013?
I am planning on carrying out a financial review of JCI UK to establish what is working and what needs a tweak, and then addressing matters as far as possible. Two key things that we need to do are to computerise the accounts system and look at introducing an online bank payment system to benefit both our members & JCI UK as an organisation.

How long have you been involved?
I joined JCI in June 2004 and it was without a doubt one of the best decisions I have ever made in my life. I can honestly say I would not be where I am or who I am today without it.

Where are you from?
I was born in Essex, but my family moved up to Boston, Lincolnshire when I was about 6 years old. Which is your local chamber? JCI Boston

Why did you join?
I joined JCI almost by accident. I was at a stage of my life where a number of constants had come to an end. A work colleague of mine introduced me to JCI. I thought the event I was going to would just be a one-off - little did I know that I would meet some amazing people and become totally hooked so very early on. It’s true what they say; the more you put in. the more you get out. My strong advice is don’t just fill out the form - really become a member, get involved, and you’ll never look back!

Which international events have you been to?
My first international event was the 2007 European Conference held in Maastricht and I have not missed a European Conference since. I am already booked for 2013 European Conference in Monte Carlo so it looks like I’m not ready to miss one yet either! I have also attended two World Congresses, the Global Partnership Summit in New York, Japanese Academy, European Capital meetings, and also a European Presidents meeting. The thing I love the most about the international events is that there are people just like you and me all over the world with the same ideas, thoughts and goals. When we come together it makes you realise the scale of our organisation and the impact we can have.

What do you do in your spare time?
I don’t have much spare time as I can always find something JCI-related to be doing. I come from a very close family and so outside of JCI I really enjoy spending time with my family and friends. I am also involved with Young Enterprise, which I gain a lot of satisfaction from. I firmly believe we need to invest in young people as they are our future. Every year the things the Young Enterprise students achieve amaze me.

What's your profession?
I’m a Chartered Accountant and consider myself to be so lucky as I love my job. I joined my new firm, HW Skegness, in February 2012, and have been invited to join the partnership with effect of 1 April 2013 so it is a very exciting year for me next year.

Share a little known fact about yourself?
I never leave home without my calculator........ You just never know when you’ll need it! I have a karaoke machine in my front room and it does get used A LOT - even the most sensible of evenings can end with a quick sing-song!

How can we get in touch with you?
You can always email me at Allison.cowell@jciuk.org.uk